Maternal Health

A Guide by Dr. Sonal Patel (July 14, 2026) Cyclosporiasis: Explosive Diarrhea. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you already think carefully about food safety and for good reason. Cyclosporiasis (also called Cyclospora infection) is an intestinal illness caused by a microscopic parasite, Cyclospora cayetanensis. It’s not one of those infections people talk about every day, but with the recent outbreak we have to address it. And the biggest problem with this parasite is tha

Dr. Patel at a home visit. A mother’s birth story is a critical driver of postpartum health outcomes, explaining everything from current anxiety triggers to ongoing physical pain and bonding stressors. Healthcare providers are often trained to ask the practical questions: bleeding, pain, feeding, mood, sleep, wound healing. Those matter. But there’s another question—one that’s easy to overlook and just as essential to postpartum recovery: “How was the birth?” For some mothers

The first 72 hours with a newborn. Bringing a newborn home is overwhelming because parents face sudden sleep deprivation, healing physical trauma, and an immediate learning curve regarding baby feeding and behavioral cues. The first 72 hours after coming home with a newborn rarely match the picture-perfect stories. Instead of calm bonding moments, many families feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and unsure of what to do next. Feeding can feel nonstop and unpredictable. Sleep may b

Why am I feeling this way? Introduction Many new parents expect some emotional ups and downs after birth, but not everyone knows when those feelings may signal something more serious. Moreover, understanding the difference between baby blues and postpartum depression can help families get the right support sooner. The Science Why do we even go through this mental anguish? Isn't giving birth enough? During pregnancy, the body produces very high levels of estrogen and progester

Black mother with her newborn nesting in the postpartum period in her home. Juneteenth is a day of profound reflection: a commemoration of the end of slavery and a celebration of Black resilience. It reminds us that the fight for freedom is never finished; it is a continuous evolution that seeks to dismantle the structures that prevent individuals from living with dignity, safety, and health. If we are to take the legacy of Juneteenth seriously, we must confront one of the mo

“It takes a village” remains true because human beings were never designed to raise children alone. While modern life may look different than it once did, the need for connection has not changed.

The first 12 weeks after birth—the 4th trimester—can be overwhelming. Discover what to expect during postpartum recovery, learn about newborn habits, and find out how a simple "Family SOS Spot" on your fridge can help you get the support you actually need.